A restrung Western Asiatic beaded necklace, composed of finely cut lentoid beads of lapis lazuli, stacked closely together to create an intricate, layered design. These deep blue semi-precious stones display different hues of blue with natural white, cream and golden striations. This necklace is clasped and threaded upon a thin metal wire. Lapis lazuli stone was highly regarded in the ancient Near East. It was customary for rulers and members of the elite to be buried with ornaments made partly or entirely of this semi-precious stone. The first use of this beautiful, vibrant rich blue stone dates back to the Neolithic, when it was first mined and exported to the Mediterranean and South Asia. Measurements: (circa) Half-length: 31cm Beaded half-length: 23 cm Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.